"A fable with magical overtones."—William Albright, Houston Post.

Bird Boy, a one-act, is about handicaps and the courage it takes to understand those who are different. It is also about love—family love, neighborly love, community love. Little Wolf is physically weak in a culture that admires strength. The fact that he is an artist means nothing. When it comes time for him to take the tests of manhood, he is embarrassed, defeated, banished from the tribe. What happens next makes an intriguing play, filled with action, native American music and dances, magic, and wonderment.

"Bird Boy confronts issues which children immediately recognize as relevant." Houston Arts magazine reported. "At the play's climax, the children in the audience are asked to help reclaim the boy's spirit by joining hands and chanting. It is no surprise that they do so instantly and with great enthusiasm. The sets, costumes, lighting, and plot have all been part of a sophisticated appeal to their imaginations and intellects." The article concluded: "I loved it."

The play was premiered by the Houston Children's Festival. It was directed by Ted Swindley, recognized by Esquire as "one of the most important directors in the country." Following the run in the University of Houston's Wortham Theatre, Bird Boy played several performances for the Junior League in Houston's Jones Hall.

The action takes place in a Native American village (a unit set was used for all scenes in the premiere); Native American costumes are worn by all the characters. Bird Boy is a technician's dream play. Thunder, lightning, misty lighting, forest sounds, animal cries, the shadow of the Great Eagle swooping over the set, Indian drums, smoke, flying actors, etc.

Other Berger plays: Little Match Girl Musical, Rapunzel

See also: A*B*C; Don Coyote; Folktales Too; The Song of Hiawatha; Talking Leaves; Audience-Participaton Plays and Prejudice & Injustice